Nobody is basing Adam Dunn solely off of OBP here, but because of the way he is pitched too, his OBP is a very valuable stat because he shows the patience to take the walk when it is what is given to him. Many hitters lack this. I am pretty sure we all know baseball is not simply numbers, but it is a mix of many things. Dusty is old school and ignores numbers, speed in the leadoff spot, weak contact in the 2 spot, Dunn down lower cuz of Avg., Phillips at 4 to split up righty lefty. These strategies also have faults.
I've watched Adam Dunn play since he broke into the league, I know his defense is questionable, it is getting better, but still average at best. Nobody is saying because he gets on base he plays good defense and is great. It is one of his valuable skills, along with his power, pitcher's being afraid of him, there are also things like his character in the clubhouse that all partake in winning. How about him and Griffey laughing and joking with Jay Bruce, I bet that is a big reason Bruce is hitting .380 because those guys made him feel welcome.